Celtic missed out on the opportunity to complete a historic Treble on Saturday.
Despite Celtic’s superior form and recent successes, they were confronted with a fired-up and tough Aberdeen squad that went on to win the Scottish Cup in an entertaining penalty shootout.
In the high-stakes world of Scottish football, where rivalries frequently overwhelm sportsmanship, Barry Ferguson, Rangers Football Club’s newly appointed ambassador, has set a good example.
Following Aberdeen’s recent victory over Celtic in the Scottish Cup final, Ferguson’s calm and respectful remarks about Celtic have emphasised Rangers’ dignity.
Aberdeen completed a 35-year wait for Scottish Cup glory, defeating Celtic in a thrilling penalty shootout at Hampden Park to replicate their 1990 victory.
While a loss like this could have provided an occasion for opponents to gloat, Ferguson chose the route of respect and introspection.
Ferguson told BBC Radio Scotland that the Bhoys had opportunities in the game, but Jimmy Thelin deserves credit for turning things up.
“Aberdeen deserved it, from the point of view that they changed their structure,” according to Barry Ferguson. “They changed how they were going to play. We spoke about tactical adaptability. They did it.
“They defended their box well when they needed to, and there wasn’t much attacking going on in the game.” They accomplished their aim and then hung in there.
“Celtic had a good chance with Maeda through. That was the big one. The shots from the post and crossbar. Celtic had the best chances. More control over the game, but it didn’t click with them. It just didn’t work for them.
